I'm digging this trench for a retaining wall and i'm down about 3 feet. 2 feet at the bottom is solid red clay and I'm still running into fat earth worms! I mean this clay is hard! How far down do those little buggers go? How do they get through this stuff? New found respect......Kirk

-- Anonymous, May 25, 2001

Answers

Depending on the species of worm (there are over 9500 documented) and their climate requirements, their burrows may extended down 10 ft or more in their natural habitats. They excrete a fluid which can actually break down calcium and stone as they pass by it , so hard clay really isn't a major challenge to them. This may sound like something out of a "B" movie, but I'll say it any way. The worms will always conquer this world and rebirth it again when their done with dinner :>)

-- Anonymous, May 25, 2001

Jay: Thing I don't understand is why they go so deep. Moisture maybe? do they reproduce at lower levels? I broke open a clump of clay and found a hollowed out spot with a worm rolled up in it. A nest? Last question: When I dig one up and toss it in the garden will it live or do I need to scoop up dirt and bury it?...Thanks .....Kirk

-- Anonymous, May 25, 2001

Worms are about the only animal that has nothing but preditors. Every life form is a potential death sentance to them. The beief is they burrow deep for safety from foraging animals. Even when feeding on top at night, a worm keeps its posterior firmly anchored within the burrow to facilitate a hasty retreat.

-- Anonymous, May 26, 2001

Kirk,

In answer to the last question. Either way, if you dump em, they will burrow quickly. If you cover them, they wont experience surface sensation (which triggers the burrow reflex).

-- Anonymous, May 26, 2001